[onewhippedpuppy]

I like the ideas with stocks, but frankly I'd like to get enough set aside in conventional savings before I start playing that game. I believe you don't invest money in the stock market that you can't afford to lose, and right now I'm not flush enough with cash that I can afford to take that risk with my kids.

For what it's worth, the biggest funding source for these accounts will probably be the grandparents making a deposit for Christmas and birthdays. We're emphasizing saving for the future vs a house full of worthless toys.